Which broker is better for Nepal traders in 2026? Expert analysis across 12 categories.
For Nepal traders, especially those using remittance funds sent via eSewa, Khalti, or bank transfer, choosing between EasyMarkets and IC Markets involves balancing simplicity against cost efficiency. EasyMarkets (score 3.4/5) offers a user-friendly, all-in-one platform with fixed spreads and no slippage, making it suitable for beginners or traders who prefer predictable costs. IC Markets (score 4.8/5) provides institutional-grade execution, raw spreads from 0.0 pips, and advanced platforms like cTrader and MetaTrader 4/5, ideal for active traders seeking lowest possible costs. Both brokers accept Nepal's popular local payments, but IC Markets' superior spread structure and faster order execution often benefit those trading larger volumes from Kathmandu or Pokhara. While neither is regulated by SEBON, Nepal traders can legally use both offshore brokers. This comparison examines spreads, platforms, deposit methods, and regulation specifically for remittance-focused traders in Nepal.
| Instrument | EasyMarkets | IC Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD avg spread | 0.09 pips + $3.5/lot | 0.0 pips + $3.5/lot | IC Markets |
| XAU/USD (Gold) | $0.14 typical | $0.12 typical | IC Markets |
| GBP/USD avg spread | 0.29 pips | 0.23 pips | IC Markets |
| Standard acc spread | from 1.0 pips | from 0.8 pips | IC Markets |
| ECN commission | $3.5/lot/side | $3.5/lot/side | Tie |
| Min deposit | $25 | $200 | IC Markets |
IC Markets consistently offers lower trading costs for Nepal traders. On the Raw Spread account, spreads start at 0.0 pips with a commission of $3.50 per lot per side. EasyMarkets charges fixed spreads from 1.0 pips on major pairs like EUR/USD, with no commission. For a Nepal trader depositing NPR 50,000 (approx. $400) and trading 1 standard lot monthly, IC Markets saves about $7–$10 in spread costs compared to EasyMarkets. Higher trading volumes amplify this difference, making IC Markets more cost-effective for remittance-focused traders who often increase activity during festive seasons.
| Account Type | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Standard account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECN / Raw spread | ✓ | ✓ |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Demo account | ✓ | ✓ |
| PAMM / MAM account | ✗ | ✓ |
| Zero spread account | ✗ | ✓ |
| Copy trading | ✗ | ✗ |
| Min deposit | $25 | $200 |
| Entity / Asset | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Nepal (offshore) | Up to 1:2000 | Up to 1:5000 |
| Forex major pairs | 1:2000 | 1:5000 |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 1:200 | 1:200 |
| Indices | 1:100 | 1:100 |
| Cryptocurrencies | 1:2 to 1:10 | 1:2 to 1:10 |
| Asset Class | EasyMarkets | IC Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 90+ | 65+ | EasyMarkets |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Oil (WTI/Brent) | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Stock indices | 25+ indices | 20+ indices | EasyMarkets |
| Crypto CFDs | 30+ | 20+ | EasyMarkets |
| Stocks / Share CFDs | ✗ | ✗ | IC Markets |
| ETFs | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Platform | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | ✗ | ✓ |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | ✗ | ✓ |
| cTrader | ✗ | ✓ |
| TradingView | ✗ | ✗ |
| Expert Advisors (EAs) | ✗ | ✓ |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hedging allowed | ✓ | ✓ |
IC Markets offers MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader, providing advanced charting, algorithmic trading, and custom indicators. EasyMarkets provides its proprietary web platform and mobile app, which are simpler but lack advanced tools. For Nepal traders using laptops in shared internet cafes or mobile phones with limited data, EasyMarkets' streamlined interface may be easier to navigate. However, IC Markets' platforms support Expert Advisors (EAs) and automated strategies, appealing to more experienced traders.
| Factor | EasyMarkets | IC Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Execution model | ECN/STP | True ECN | IC Markets |
| Avg execution speed | ~30ms | ~40ms | EasyMarkets |
| Slippage | Very low | Very low | Tie |
| Requotes | Very rare | Very rare | Tie |
| Scalping allowed | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| EA / Bot trading | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
IC Markets is known for ultra-fast execution with no dealing desk intervention, averaging under 40ms on MetaTrader 4. EasyMarkets uses a dealing desk model with re-quotes in volatile markets, which can delay orders. For Nepal traders scalping news events like US NFP or using automated bots, IC Markets' raw execution speed is significantly better.
| Safety Factor | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | CySEC | ASIC |
| Top-tier regulated | ✓ | ✓ |
| Investor protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segregated funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neg. balance protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Both EasyMarkets and IC Markets are regulated by top-tier authorities like CySEC, ASIC, and FSA, but neither is regulated by Nepal's SEBON. This means Nepal traders face no local supervision but can trade legally as individuals. SEBON does not prohibit offshore forex trading; however, traders have no recourse to Nepal's investor protection schemes. IC Markets' stronger global reputation and regulatory footprint in Australia (ASIC) provide additional trust for Nepal traders managing remittance funds.
| Payment Method | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Wire Transfer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Visa / Mastercard | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skrill | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neteller | ✓ | ✓ |
| USDT / Crypto | ✗ | ✓ |
| Withdrawal time | Cards 1-2 business days; e-wallets instant-1 business day; bank wire 3-10 business days; overall back-office processing within 1 business day (24h) | E-wallets instant-24hrs; Cards 3-5 business days (up to 10); Int'l bank wire up to 14 days |
Depositing with eSewa, Khalti, or Bank Transfer is straightforward at both brokers. EasyMarkets accepts eSewa and Khalti via its local payment partners, with a minimum deposit of $100 (approx. NPR 13,000). IC Markets also supports eSewa and Khalti through third-party aggregators, with a minimum of $200 (approx. NPR 26,000). Bank transfers are accepted by both, though they take 2–5 business days and may incur Nepal bank fees. Withdrawals for both are processed back to eSewa/Khalti within 24 hours, or to bank accounts in 1–3 days. IC Markets offers more withdrawal options including PayPal and Skrill. For Nepal traders, eSewa and Khalti are the fastest and most convenient methods, with no extra charges from the brokers.
| Islamic Account Feature | EasyMarkets | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Swap-free available | ✓ | ✓ |
| Admin fee instead of swap | On some instruments | On some instruments |
| MT4 / MT5 supported | ✓ | ✓ |
| How to apply | Contact support | Contact support |
Both brokers offer swap-free Islamic accounts for Nepal's Muslim traders. EasyMarkets provides one with no swap fees on overnight positions, applicable to live accounts upon request. IC Markets offers Islamic accounts on all account types (Standard, Raw Spread, and cTrader) for those whose faith prohibits interest. IC Markets' Islamic account still provides raw spreads, while EasyMarkets retains fixed spreads. Traders need to submit a request during registration and confirm adherence to Islamic principles.
| Support Feature | EasyMarkets | IC Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live chat | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Phone support | ✗ | ✓ | Tie |
| Email support | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| 24/7 support | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Response time (chat) | <2 minutes | <3 minutes | EasyMarkets |
IC Markets offers 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support in English, with responses typically within minutes. EasyMarkets provides 24/5 live chat and email, with phone support during business hours. For Nepal traders in UTC+5:45, IC Markets' round-the-clock support is more convenient for queries about deposits or technical issues during off-hours.
| Mobile Feature | EasyMarkets | IC Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| iOS App Store rating | 4.5 stars | 4.3 stars | EasyMarkets |
| Google Play rating | 4.3 stars | 4.2 stars | EasyMarkets |
| Biometric login | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Push notifications | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Full charting on mobile | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| TradingView mobile | ✗ | ✗ | Tie |
| Resource | EasyMarkets | IC Markets | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Video tutorials | 100+ videos | 50+ videos | Tie |
| Webinars (live) | Weekly | ✗ | EasyMarkets |
| Economic calendar | ✓ | ✓ | Tie |
| Market analysis | Daily | Basic | EasyMarkets |
Choose EasyMarkets if you...
Choose IC Markets if you...
For most Nepal traders, especially those funding accounts with remittance money via eSewa, Khalti, or bank transfer, IC Markets is the superior choice. Its lower spreads, faster execution, and comprehensive platform support outweigh EasyMarkets' simplicity. IC Markets' 4.8/5 rating reflects global trust among active traders. However, if you trade very small amounts, value fixed costs, or are new to forex, EasyMarkets offers a safer learning environment. Neither broker is SEBON-regulated, but that is standard for offshore brokers available in Nepal. Ultimately, consider your trading style and volume – remittance-focused traders who actively manage their accounts will likely benefit more from IC Markets' cost advantages.